Despotic: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a cruel and oppressive way of ruling, where the leader has absolute power. It carries a strongly negative connotation.

• The despotic king imposed high taxes and harsh punishments.
• Many fled the country to escape the despotic rule.

Describes a ruler or leader who uses power in a cruel and unjust way. It also carries a strongly negative connotation.

• The tyrannical ruler jailed anyone who opposed him.
• His tyrannical behavior made the employees unhappy.

Used to describe someone acting in a manner that resembles a dictator, often with absolute authority and little concern for others' opinions. Typically used in political or organizational contexts.

• Her dictatorial management style left no room for employee input.
• The dictatorial government refused to hold elections.

Refers to a ruler or a management style in which one person makes all the decisions without input from others. Similar to 'authoritarian' but often used in organizational or workplace contexts.

• The CEO's autocratic leadership style made employees feel powerless.
• An autocratic government is often less efficient than a democratic one due to lack of diverse input.

Used to describe a leadership style or government that values strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom. Common in political or social contexts.

• The authoritarian regime suppressed free speech and controlled the media.
• He runs the company in an authoritarian manner, allowing no room for debate.

Used to describe someone who exercises power in a cruel and arbitrary way, often in a government or leadership context.

• The people suffered under the despotic rule of the corrupt leader.
• She ran her business in a despotic manner, making decisions without consulting anyone.

Describes someone who asserts their will over others in an arrogant or overbearing way, often in personal or social contexts.

• His domineering attitude made it hard for others to work with him.
• She had a domineering presence that intimidated everyone around her.

Used to describe situations, systems, or behaviors that are harsh, burdensome, and unjust, including social or political contexts.

• The residents longed for freedom from the oppressive regime.
• The new policies were found to be oppressive to the minority communities.

Refers to someone who tries to dominate or dictate the actions of others, often in personal or professional relationships but less severe than 'despotic'.

• Her controlling behavior pushed many of her friends away.
• He was known for being very controlling with his employees.

Describes leadership or authority that is cruel and unjust, often lacking legality or fairness, commonly used in political and historical contexts.

• The dictator's tyrannical rule left the country in ruins.
• She described her father as having a tyrannical approach to parenting.